21
Jul

It’s shocking to hear that an estimated 1 million eye infections in the United States occur each year because of contact lenses. While these lenses are safe to wear when used correctly, they can also pose a threat to your eye health if you aren’t consistent about cleaning and maintaining the lenses.

If you love the convenience of wearing contact lenses, then it’s essential to ensure that you are using them correctly to minimize the risk of eye infections. Here are a few things that you need to know:

Myth-Busting: Contact Lens Use and Cleaning

Are you a contact lens wearer? Then don’t let yourself be fooled by any of these myths:

• Quick Cleaning with Saliva:If you are on the go and need to clean your contacts quickly, then don’t make the mistake of using saliva. The reality is that saliva can contain 700+ species of bacteria, which could cause an eye infection.
• The Case Doesn’t Need Frequent Cleaning:Your contact lens case can be contaminated with biofilm within 24 hours. Make sure that you are scrubbing the case at least once or twice a week.
• Occasionally Sleeping in Contacts is Fine:Going to sleep in your contact lenses can increase the risk of eye complications, including corneal ulcers. The truth is that your eyes are deprived of oxygen within 2 hours of wearing your lenses, which is why it’s important to give your eyes a break at night.

Even if you are feeling tired, don’t skip the essential steps to clean your contact lenses. The consequences can be quite serious. Not only could you face expensive eye care treatment costs, but there is a risk of permanent and serious damage to your eyes.

The Best Contact Lens Routine

Here are a few best practices you should be following to care for your contact lenses:

• Use fresh solution every day (don’t reuse the solution from yesterday).
• When removing the lenses, rub them for 20 seconds on each side while cleaning.
• Clean your case at least weekly.
• Replace your contact lens case every three months (put a reminder on your calendar).

If you have any eye pain or concerns about wearing your contact lenses, then call our team as soon as possible. Contact us at Temecula Creek Optom